It’s estimated that between ages 30 and 70, a man will lose nearly a quarter of their skeletal muscle mass, turning even the hunkiest guy into a lanky fella. Those hours spent in the gym are not in vain, however, as this muscle loss is preventable, with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT).

Low testosterone, also known as Low-T for short—in conjunction with andropause—is largely responsible for this surprisingly common, yet potentially debilitating condition.

What is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)?

BHRT is a form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) which uses naturally derived hormones instead of synthetic versions to supplement deficiencies in natural hormone production. Hormones are the body’s messengers, telling various organs and cells when and where to perform their respective functions. Without these messengers (in the case of hormone imbalance) the body can’t function properly resulting in problems ranging from menopause and hot flashes to depression and muscle loss.

Hormonal Muscle Loss

One of the more severe issues from chronic hormonal imbalance is the loss of skeletal muscle mass in men. This form of muscle is responsible for how people move about, lift things and physically function. If this muscle deteriorates, especially at an accelerated rate, you could be in a world of hurt.

A hormone known as DHEA is responsible for the production testosterone (and estrogen in women), helps with immune system strength, supports cardiovascular health, aids in stress recovery, and helps build/maintain bone and muscle mass.

Low levels of DHEA can then have a significant impact on anyone’s health, with symptoms including:

To correct these dangerously low levels of DHEA, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is a popular treatment option.

How Does Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Work?

Providing a controlled and concentrated form of naturally produced DHEA (derived from yams and soy), bioidentical hormone replacement therapy provides a safer alternative to synthetic hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

Available in cream, pill, patch and pellet form, bioidentical hormones can be administered in some ways to suit your lifestyle and your needs. The first step is often a saliva test and, in some cases, a blood test to determine your current hormone levels. This helps doctors supply just the right dosage to fit your requirements. Dosage is key with regards to hormone therapy. Remember it was a slight hormonal imbalance that caused your issue in the first place, an error with treatment could make matters even worse.

After you have found the deficiency and chosen an appropriate distribution method with your doctor, treatment can begin. Your hormone levels may be retested periodically to ensure a proper dosage of bioidentical hormone is administered as treatment continues.

For many, BHRT has provided a treatment option unlike anything else. Improving on the controversial synthetic hormones used before, natural/bioidentical hormones have helped many with muscle loss from low levels of DHEA.